London, Thanasis Gavos

The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Rishi Sunak had contact with the Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu.

According to Downing Street, Mr Sunak reaffirmed his country’s unwavering support for Israel following the “heinous terrorist attacks” by Hamas and expressed his deepest condolences on behalf of the British people for the deaths, injuries and kidnappings in this “senseless tragedy”.

They then discussed Israel’s response to Hamas in Gaza and the British prime minister confirmed he had ordered additional military forces to be sent to the Eastern Mediterranean.

In particular, spy and maritime patrol aircraft, with the mission to detect and prevent the transfer of weapons to terrorist organizations, two Royal Navy ships for patrols in the Eastern Mediterranean, three Merlin helicopters and a company of marines will go to the area from today.

At the same time, an order has been given to reinforce the British forces in Israel, Cyprus and the wider region to provide assistance in the event of the spread of tension.

Mr Sunak said the overall aim of the additional British military presence is to strengthen security and prevent an escalation of the conflict.

The British leader also agreed that Hamas cannot continue to have the ability to commit such atrocities against the Israeli people.

But he noted to his interlocutor that Hamas has “interfered” with the civilian population of Gaza and it is “important to take all possible measures to protect ordinary Palestinians and facilitate humanitarian aid”.

He emphasized the importance of opening the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt so that humanitarian aid can pass through and British and other citizens who wish to leave.

Mr. Netanyahu thanked the United Kingdom for its solidarity and the visit to Israel of British Foreign Secretary James Cleverley.

Meanwhile, in statements to Sky News, UK Defense Secretary Grant Shapps admitted that it is “extremely likely” that British nationals are among the hostages taken by Hamas in Gaza.

He also revealed that London has sent additional security intelligence personnel to the area as part of efforts to free the hostages and help trapped residents.